School season is back, and it’s a time of the year with high energy consumption. To help you conserve energy during this time of year, we’ve compiled a series of actionable energy efficiency tips you can follow.

Easy Energy Efficiency Tips

1. Install a programmable thermostat

Programmable thermostats are quite useful. During the warmer months, you should put the temperature as high as you can; during the winter, program the temperature as low as you can comfortably handle. The programmable thermostat can heat and cool your home around your schedule, making it a powerful tool to help you save energy.

2. Optimize your lighting

While the kids are at school, you should be consuming less energy throughout the day. Take advantage of this by ensuring that all unused lights are turned off. It’s also a good idea to replace inefficient lightbulbs. Replace all your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulbs. These bulbs tend to use less energy, while also lasting longer. Optimizing your lighting surprisingly simple tip that will help you consume less power throughout the course of the year.

3. Unplug your devices

Most kids have an arsenal of gadgets and devices throughout the house, but while they’re away, it’s wise to unplug them to conserve energy. Even though the electronics will be idle, they still consume “vampire energy”, which is energy that leaks out from plugs and chargers while they are connected to a power outlet.

4. Use the fridge wisely

While you’re preparing your kid’s meals for school, you’ll be using your refrigerator while you take out certain items. The more you open and close your fridge, the more energy you consume, so it’s better to take out everything you need to use at once. While this is a small adjustment, it can help you conserve energy in the long run. Also, be sure to inspect your fridge’s seals. If the seals are broken, cold air will leak out, wasting a great deal of energy and money.

5. Use propane

Propane is a great energy source, and if used properly, can be more efficient than other energy sources. Compared against conventional gas and electric systems, propane can be much cheaper, especially when you factor in low installation and maintenance costs. Propane is extremely versatile, as it can heat your home, water, appliances (stove, dryer, etc.), and it can provide back-up power. Propane can also be purchased in bulk with affordable pre-buy contracts.

The school year is a great time to optimize how your household consumes energy. Follow the energy efficiency tips listed in this post to conserve more power and to save money throughout the school season and contact us today for more information!

Why should you pre-buy your propane? If there is one benefit, it’s this: you lock in a fixed price for the year. This is an incredible benefit, as the fuel market can be extremely volatile. It’s not uncommon to see steep price hikes when entering a new season, but luckily propane pre-buy contracts can help keep your costs down.

Propane is manufactured from the crude oil refining process and natural gas manufacturing. Because of this, the price of propane will usually trend in the same direction as the crude oil and natural gas commodities.

Propane prices can fluctuate on a weekly basis. This fluctuation is caused by simple supply and demand. For example, in the winter months, the demand is typically high, which can cause prices to skyrocket. When the weather is cold, you can expect higher propane prices. As a rule, the more severe the weather, the more you can expect to pay. If you simply need propane for the winter, then it’s easy to watch propane prices in the summer and pre-purchase your propane in the summer. However, if you are like many and need propane year-round, you’re vulnerable to year-round volatility. If you need propane year-round, the solution is simple: pre-purchase a year’s supply worth of propane. By doing this, you avoid the volatility and unpredictability of the propane market.

Lock in Low Prices with Propane Pre-Buy Contracts

Because of this volatility, paying for propane on an as-needed basis isn’t wise. By locking in low prices for the year, you will immediately know what your price is, and you will likely save money in the long run. For example, propane prices usually rise $0.50-$1.50 per gallon during the winter. If you can avoid that price hike by prudently choosing the pre-buy option, you will see significant savings. Let’s say you need 200 gallons for the winter season, and this winter, the price per gallon is an extra $1.50—you will save an extra $300 this winter.

Be Fully Stocked

There are times when there are propane shortages due to an unforeseen problem or crisis. Instead of scrambling to find the propane you need in this scenario, simply pre-buy your propane so that you have the tanks you need year-round. You won’t have to worry about calling to schedule deliveries, remembering to pay your bill on-time, or monitoring your propane usage. By pre-buying your propane for the year, you will have total peace of mind from knowing that you are fully stocked and prepared.

Propane can do far more than simply keep you warm during the winter months. Propane can be used to fuel your summer fun. In today’s post, we’re going to discuss a few ways you can use propane to help with the summer’s festivities.

1. Grilling

There’s nothing quite like a summer barbeque. A gathering of friends and family can be great, and the food can be delicious, making for a perfect summer activity. We recommend using a propane grill for a few reasons:
Ease of use: Charcoal grills can take a bit of practice to use properly. A propane grill ignites with the turn of the knob, which makes it very easy to use.
Temperature control: Charcoal grills tend to be very unpredictable, while propane grills will distribute constant and even heat throughout the grill.
Cleanliness: Propane grills are very easy to clean and maintain, while charcoal grills can be extremely messy.

2. Pool Heating

The summer months are hot, but that doesn’t mean that your pool can’t get a bit chilly at night. Use propane as a power source for your pool heater. This is a terrific way to save money on electricity, and it can ensure that your pool is comfortable throughout the summer months.

3. Patio Lighting

There’s something charming about lounging on the patio during summer nights and using a propane-powered fire torch can help add to the charm. Outdoor fire torches are safe, aesthetically pleasing, and help to create a certain ambiance. Visitors will be impressed, and if you have festivities at your home, you can continue the party outside.

4. Fire Pit

Backyard fire pits are more popular than ever, and there’s good reason why. You no longer need chopped wood to start a fire. You can simply flick a switch and enjoy the ambiance. A fire pit can be the centerpiece for outdoor gatherings, cookouts, and campfires. Want to toast some marshmallows and trade spooky stories over a campfire? Propane makes it incredibly easy to fuel your backyard fire pit.

5. Back-Up Power

If the power goes out during the summer months, it’s good to know that you have back-up power. Propane can be an excellent source of power for your generator. In some regions, summer storms can be rough, and having a back-up generator is an absolute must. Propane has some benefits over the traditional gasoline-powered generators:

Propane fuel is often available even when gas pumps aren’t running. This is because it’s stored in individual gas cylinders. You can store multiple cylinders in your home for preparation.

Propane has a limitless shelf life. Over extended periods of time, gasoline can start to degrade.

Propane is extremely versatile, and it can help you make the most of the summer season. Contact us today for some more ideas on how you use propane during the summer months!

Heating is a central function responsible for keeping your home comfortable and efficient, which is why it’s so important to choose the best fit for your family. If your heat currently runs on oil or electric, it may be time to consider upgrading to a clean energy fuel like propane. The popularity of propane is growing quickly, and for many reasons. Want to know why propane gas is the first choice for savvy homeowners everywhere? Here are five reasons to convert your home to propane:

Efficiency

Efficiency is at the top of the list, and propane definitely delivers. Compared to other fuel sources, propane offers a level of value and comfort that sets it apart from other heating options. Efficiency is one of the key differentiators that makes propane such an attractive option, allowing you to save hundreds of dollars a year because it burns so cleanly.

Flexibility

Propane does it all and is powerful enough to meet your home’s wide variety of needs. It’s used for homar heating, home appliances, space heating, generators, and much more. Not only does it allow you to simplify your life by using propane appliances that lost longer and require less maintenance, it offers flexibility you just can’t get with other fuels.

Safety

When handled properly, propane is one of the safest options for heating and running your home. It’s also extremely handy in an emergency if you happen to be in need of a backup generator.

Reliability

Speaking of emergencies, propane wins hands down over electric heating. When you use propane there’s no need to worry about power outages caused by fallen branches or ice storms interfering with your power lines. Propane is already ready, every day, no matter what type of weather you’re facing.

Green

One of the most popular characteristics of propane is that it’s nontoxic, posing no threat to your groundwater or soil. As an option that burns a lot cleaner than other fuels, propane helps you to shrink your home’s carbon footprint while you do your part to keep your community green.

Your Propane Expert

Keystone Propane is your expert propane provider, here to give you the guidance you need when you need it most. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is ready to discuss your home heating system options and answer any questions you may have about converting to propane any time of year!

Gas grills and furnaces may be one of the most popular propane appliances, but propane has a lot more to offer when it comes to powering your home. Millions of homeowners and business owners in the U.S. currently use propane, and with so many possible applications, it’s no wonder that more and more people are switching to propane every day. Here are the five most popular propane gas appliances that are drawing attention from both residential and business customers.

Propane Fireplaces

Not only are indoor fireplaces beautiful, but they also help to efficiently warm your home on even the coldest nights. Many people often don’t realize that the ceramic logs used aren’t just for decoration, they actually radiate heat long after your propane gas is turned off.

Propane Clothes Dryers

Substituting an electric model for a clothes dryer that runs on propane has a variety of benefits, and energy efficiency is often at the top of the list. Another important advantage is that the moist heat created by propane is generally safer for most fabrics compared to heat from electric dryers.

Propane Stoves

It’s no secret that propane gives you more control over the temperature, which allows for more even cooking. And not only are propane stoves and cooktops more efficient, there’s no need to wait for them to heat up or cool down, which creates a safer cooking environment.

Propane Water Heaters

In most U.S. homes, hot water heaters consume the most energy, which is often around 30% of your total energy usage. This is why it’s so imperative that you choose an efficient hot water heating method like propane. Propane hot water heaters are known for heating water consistently and quickly.

Propane Fire Pits

Enjoy the warmth and coziness of an open fire in the privacy of your own backyard with one of many propane fire pit options available today. Not only do propane fire pits brighten up your summer nights … they let you enjoy the outdoors any time of year. For more information about the benefits of the most popular propane gas appliances, contact one of our qualified specialists today!

As one of the most sought after amenities, indoor fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. There are so many styles to choose from with an endless number of benefits. Here are some of the biggest reasons why indoor fireplaces have become such a huge hit.

Everyone Loves Fire

There’s nothing cozier than the warm glow of an indoor fireplace. It creates the perfect gathering spot for family and friends while providing a beautiful and relaxing ambiance. An indoor fireplace invites you to pull up a chair and get comfortable with a good book while you make lasting memories with the people you care about.

Green Heat

We already know that propane heat is one of the cleanest energy sources available today, and indoor fireplaces running on propane gas are no exception. Not only are they eco-friendly, they’re easy and safe to use.

Indoor Roasting

Want to enjoy some gooey marshmallows in the winter without building an outdoor fire and shivering under a blanket? With an indoor fireplace, you can have a smore anytime and maybe even roast a hot dog or two!

Light Without Electricity

When inclement weather strikes and the power goes out, we immediately head for our stockpile of half-burned candles. But with an indoor fireplace, light and some extra warmth are readily available despite any inconvenient power outages.

Independent Energy

With an indoor fireplace, you control when and how long you want your fuel to burn. You can enjoy the freedom of energy independence while having the power to light a welcoming fire in the privacy of your own home.

Would you like to find out more information about our indoor fireplaces? If so, stop by our Throop or Greentown showrooms and don’t forget to use the magic words “Baby It’s Cold Outside” to get 10% off your purchase. Find out more about this offer by clicking here.

Transform your unused exterior space into an backyard oasis with a comforting outdoor propane fireplace. If you’ve been thinking about how you and your family can make better use of your outdoor areas and how you can spend more time in the fresh air, a fireplace is the perfect solution.

Since the dawn of time, humans have gathered around the hearth to enjoy the warmth of their fireplaces, but things have progressed a lot since then. There are many types of outdoor fireplaces to choose from, so it’s important that take a few minutes to figure out what it is that you want (and need) in your new unit. If it’s warmth and beauty you’re looking for without the hassle that typically goes along with owning and operating a wood burning fireplace, a propane gas outdoor fireplace is an ideal option.

There are several benefits to choosing an outdoor propane fireplace over a wood burning unit. Some of these benefits include:

eliminating the dangerous sparks that wood can throw off

eliminating the sizable clean-up that comes with burning wood

propane fireplaces are less harmful to the environment

If you do decide on a propane fireplace, it’s also important to remember that choosing a custom installation can be considerably more expensive than a regular unit. Keystone offers a variety of outdoor propane fireplace that offer easy set up, giving you a beautiful backyard oasis for a lot less time and money.

* Important Note: when setting up your new propane fireplace, always make sure that it’s away from trees, shrubs, or any other flammable materials.

Investing a small amount into an outdoor fireplace will also extend your outdoor enjoyment further into the cooler fall season, and let it begin sooner in the Spring. Keep the outdoor chill away in spring, summer, and fall, and get your family outside more often.

If you’d like more information about the propane gas fireplaces offered by Keystone Propane, click here and start building your cozy, backyard oasis today!

Whether you’ve recently bought a house or have lived in your current home for many years, it’s important to take time to assess the condition of your furnace. There are numerous benefits to replacing an old heating system, and you’ll find that making such an investment will benefit your family in the long run. Some of these benefits include:

A high efficiency heating system will lower your yearly fuel costs.

You’ll get peace of mind replacing a system that has previously failed.

Higher efficiency means increased home comfort.

You’ll be increasing the resale value of your home.

A higher efficiency furnace will reduce green house emissions and is environmentally friendly.

But how exactly do you know when to upgrade your furnace? One of the most reliable signs is that your furnace has something known as a “high idle loss.” Simply put, a high idle loss means that your system is wasting a considerable amount of heat when the furnace is off. This high idle loss has an enormous impact on the amount of heating fuel you consume each year.

Signs of High Idle Loss

Although hiring a professional to assess the state of your furnace is recommended, you don’t need to be a heating and cooling expert to recognize the signs of high idle loss in your home. You can start by answering the following questions:

Is your furnace room hot? If so, chances are good you’re experiencing high idle loss.

Is the furnace hot when it’s not making heat or hot water? This is another sign of high idle loss, especially if it’s occurring during the fall or summer months.

Is your furnace sized correctly? If your propane heating system frequently cycles on and of during the coldest days, it likely has too much capacity making the furnace highly inefficient.

Does your furnace have a pilot light? Pilot lights are continuously using energy, creating a less efficient idle loss.

How well is your heating duct system insulated? A substantial amount of heat loss occurs if your duct work is not insulated properly, particularly in unheated areas of your home.

Once you have determined whether or not you’re experiencing high idle loss in your home, consider talking to a professional for information on the cost of replacing your current heating system. Upgrading your furnace can truly be a wise investment in your home, the environment, and your well being.

There are many things people take into consideration when selecting a heating system for their home. Safety is usually at the very top of that list, closely followed by affordability and practicality. Discussing these concerns with trained professionals can quickly give you the peace of mind you need to make this important decision.

The good news is that both propane furnaces and boilers come in a wide variety of options to accommodate your needs. They typically last for approximately 15-20 years, and are a reliable means of home heating. If your area experiences a power outage, you can still enjoy heat, hot water, and hot food, even during inclement weather. And compared to electric heat pumps, a propane heating system is considered to be an average of 20 degrees warmer. Also, it typically costs less to repair a propane furnace than an electric heat pump.

Propane heat can be the ideal solution if you are considering moving to an area that isn’t served by natural gas. Having this flexibility can be extremely important to anyone interested in building a new home, especially if you are planning to install radiant heat. Best of all, over 80% of propane is produced in the United States, helping to reduce our reliance on foreign oil.

Propane Safety

Thanks to stringent industry regulations, propane is one of the safest choices for home heating.

Propane is safe and will not harm soil.

An odor is added to propane to help with detection due to the fact that is naturally colorless and normally has no odor.

Propane gas is nontoxic.

Tips for Converting to Propane

If you are thinking of converting from your current heating system to propane, you should always have a professional evaluation. A trained expert can help you to accurately determine your home’s heating needs so that you can make an educated decision. For example, having a heating system that is too big can be tremendously wasteful, causing you to lose money and efficiency.

Find out more about the benefits of propane heat and schedule a consultation with a Keystone Propane professional today.

Don’t let this year’s winter weather put a burden on your pocket book. By following these few simple tips, you will see a noticeable difference in your heating bill without spending any additional money!

Turning Down the Thermostat Does Make a Difference

Did you know that you can save approximately 3% of your total heating costs by turning down your thermostat just 1 degree? Those percentages can add up quickly. Think of how many opportunities there are to turn down the heat when you and your family aren’t home. Remember to adjust your thermostat before you leave for work and again at night before you go to bed … you can save a bundle.

Clean Those Heating Vents

Any build up or blockages in your heating vents could prevent the proper circulation of air flow throughout your home. Without good circulation, the lack of efficiency isn’t only wasting heat … it’s wasting money as well. Be sure to keep your vents clear of debris, carpeting, or anything else that could disrupt airflow and efficiency.

It’s Curtains for You

How and when you adjust your curtains could aid in both warming your home and insulating it at night. Determine which windows in your home are facing south, and open your shades and curtains to let the sunlight in. Closing all your curtains in the evening will help to prevent the warm air from escaping, increasing your overall heating efficiency.

Are You a Fan of Fans?

Fans can quickly disperse the heat in your home, especially if they’re left on longer than needed. It can be extremely easy to forget to turn off a fan after use, so do your best to be aware of fans running longer than absolutely necessary, especially in your kitchen and bathroom.

Close Up That Fireplace

Contrary to popular belief, that cozy fire can actually be stealing the heat from your home when it’s in use. Try to limit your the use of your fireplace and always keep the damper closed when not in use.

Contact us today for information on Keystone Propane quality services and how we can help you save on heating costs!

When it comes to saving big on heat expenses, sometimes spending a little money is the key. Here are a few affordable things you can do to help lower your heating bill and increase your home’s efficiency.

How’s Your Ductwork?
You can easily lose upwards of 50% of heated air if your home does not have well planned ductwork. If you happen to be particularly handy, there are lots of ways you can improve your ductwork system. Be sure to check that all of your ductwork is connected properly and repair any of the places where pipes may be pinched. Always remember to use tape with metal backing in lieu of regular duct tape, as it lasts much longer. If you are inexperienced or uncomfortable with this type of work, hiring a professional may be your best bet. Although it my be more expensive, it can save you a lot in the long run.

Stop Heat from Escaping
Gaps around doors and windows could allow a significant amount of heat to escape your home. Inspect all of your home’s doors and windows for any drafts and open areas. Caulking is an excellent way to seal older windows to help keep the heat in and the cold air out. Also, investing in a few inexpensive door sweeps to block exterior entrances can improve your home’s efficiency as well.

Time to Winterize
Another way to eliminate heat loss is winterizing older windows. If window replacement isn’t an option, covering your windows with a with a clear plastic can help with insulation. It is also a good idea to review your home to pinpoint any other areas that can be better insulated with traditional methods. Pay particular attention to your attic, which is one of the most common places that allows heat to escape in older homes. Always be sure to look for blackened spots on the edging of the fiberglass … this dust is an indicator of where airflow is escaping. Sealing these areas first can make a tremendous impact.